DENVER KU KLUX KLAN “When jangling voices are hushed and the clamor of intolerant opposition is stilled, so that the Klan can have an uninterrupted hearing, its true message will be heard and its true mission will be understood by those persons who really desire to be informed,” --KuKlux Klan, “A Fundamental Klan Doctrine 1915” ‘The Ku Klux Klan had a message that transformed to adapt to the changing American environment, The Ku Klux Klan, considered one of the more extreme social movements to ‘occupy the American landscape, was founded in the 1860s. The Klan of the 1860s was the first of several Klan organizations that formed and disbanded over the next several decades. Historically enmeshed in racial hatred, bigotry, and violence, the Klan also created an elaborate thetoric and ideology to coincide with their physical embodiment, Prior to World War I, the Klan is most remembered for invoking acts of violence, terror, and intimidation upon people of African-American descent. Extensions of rights to newly freed slaves and Republican regulation during the Reconstruction drew many white Christian men into Klan membership in hopes of reestablishing white supremacy. Internal friction as well as the passing of the Force Acts would prove fruitful in the demise of the original Klan, The Force Acts were federal laws established in 1870 and 1871 to help protect the voting rights of African-Americans. The Forces Acts, more importantly, were instituted to limit Klan activities by making federal offenses of actions such as tampering with voting rights, and the overall deprivation of civil rights. ‘Anew Klan with an altered image was formed in 1915, becoming a recognizable force by 1921, Klan leadership espied Denver, Colorado as an entirely new target to mobilize recruits and + Ku Klux Klan, “A Fundamental Klan Doctrine 1915,” archive.lib.msu.edu/DMC/AmRad/fundamentalclandoctrine2 establish a new political approach. The self-proclaimed Imperial Wizard of the Ku Klox Klan in 1921 was William Joseph Simmons. Simmons was the initial driving force behind the newly Greated Klan image. The KKK’s new image was motivated by white Protestant values, the Preservation of law and order, and high standards of American citizenship. In Denver especially, ‘hey sought out to eliminate illegal bootlegging and uphold a virtuous Christian lifestyle that involved family and fraternity. William Joseph Simmons chose Dr, John Galen Locke as the Grand Dragon ofthe state of Colorado and the conductor of Klan business out of Denver? Dr John Galen Locke was especially instrumental for mobilizing Klan political influence in Denver, and supporting the campaigns and eventual victories of local politicians Clarence Morley, Rice Means, and Benjamin F. Stapleton. John Galen Locke set out to instill the characteristics of the new Klan image in Denver. ‘The Denver faction of the Ku Klux Klan had the characteristic of aligning their newly developed Thetorie and public image with the policies of Denver's statesmen. The Klan provided political Support to politicians Benjamin F. Stapleton, Rice W. Means, and Clarence J. Morley. The additional political backing helped these politicians gain prominent governmental poss in Colorado, Although the Klan’s prominence in Denver was short-lived, examining newspaper clippings and Klan publications ean offer a clearer understanding on the ways in which they endorsed political candidates. After the politcal victories ofthe Klan’s endorsed candidates, the Klan was then able to influence local political decisions. According to historian Robert Alan Goldberg, “The Klan offered a program of Americanism, militant Protestantism, fraternity, “As far as Ku Klux Klan titles, Imperial Wizard refers to the National leader of the Klan, and Grand Dragon refers to the Klan leader of the state, appointed by the Imperial Wizard.3 order, religious intolerance, and racial purity, a plethora of causes from which to choose.” Goldberg is suggesting that the Klan had something to offer to most middle-class white Protestants, There are extensive books, essays, and assorted media publications on the Ku Klux Klan 8 a nationally recognized alliance. Material on the Klan’s ascension in Denver has proven to be in less abundance. There is, however, a book entitled Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan in Colorado, by Robert Alan Goldberg. Goldberg’s volume offers ahistorical examination of the Klan’s rapid rise and fall in 1920s Denver. Goldberg's contention concems the Klan aligning themselves on the platform of law and order. Goldberg argues thatthe social climate in Denver, a5 well as the political alignment between the Klan, Rice Means, Clarence Morley, and Benjamin F. Stapleton, allowed the Klan to become a governmental power. Goldberg examines the Klan’s ability to maneuver in Denver, as well as their eventual implosion, Author and Historian Nancy MacLean wrote a noteworthy book entitled Behind the Mask of Chivalry: The Making ofthe ‘Second Ku Klux Klan. MacLean explores topics such as the significance of vigilantism as according to the Klan of the 20" century. MacLean discusses why and how the new faction of the Klan justifies acts of vigilantism. In addition, Maclean explores the ways in which chivalrous and charitable acts performed by the Klan were attached to their roles as the protectors of white society. Women especially were the targets of benevolent deeds. Women were seen as ‘vulnerable and helpless. The Klan performed gracious deeds, thus creating a positive public persona as well as implementing a level of security and command. Other pertinent evidence Pertaining to the Denver Klan lies within media publications such as the Denver Post, the Colorado Statesmen, and the Denver Express. These publicatis S are important because they * Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Colorado (Urbana: Klan In University of Illinois Press, 1981), 10-11.demonstrate media bias in portraying the Klan as charitable citizens as well as violent white- supremacists. Newspaper articles from the late 1920s through the 1930s show the regret of former Klan members. The array of articles from the 1920s to the 1940s provided the community of Denver with the public maneuvering of the Klan, in addition to the voices of the opposition, Comparing and contrasting Goldberg, MacLean, and the primary source newspaper articles, will demonstrate the various perceptions of the new Klan image, as well as demonstrate the shifting attitudes of the Denver media from favorable to unfavorable. Goldberg explains how the Denver Klan projected themselves as advocates of law and order until they gained political prominence. MacLean explores the psychology behind the Klan’s act of vigilantism and charity. The primary source material exhibits the fluctuating public perception of the Klan from the early 1920s to their demise. Other publications provide evidence of the Denver Klan utilizing their new image to align with local politicians. In 1963 James Harlan Davis of the University of Denver wrote a ‘master thesis titled “The Rise of the Ku Klux Klan in Colorado 1921-1925. Davis studied a multitude of topics involving the Denver Klan such as techniques of promotion, the Klan and Colorado, and the elections of 1924. Davis’ thesis also points out the Klan’s image as charitable citizens generating favorable attention from the public and media, The most important of historiography rests within actual Ku Klux Klan publications and propaganda. These primary source documents and advertisements also support the argument conceming Klan imagery and political arrangement. Part of the 1920s Klan strategy was to offer an assortment of objectives that were appealing to the concerns of the white Protestant community. The 1920s Klan was able to operate due to the shifting post World War I American social climate, The immense immigration of easter European Jews and Catholics created frustrations5 inthe minds of many white American Protestants. Other issues involved the fear of Communism Propelled by the Red Scare and reinforced by labor union strikes. The American media portrayed these events as a threat to the American way of life. Prohibition raised the level of lawlessness as bootleggers ileyally transported alcohol throughout the country. Denver was no exception the Jaw enforcement complications caused by bootlegging, Robert Alan Goldberg states, “Moonshiners and bootleggers infested the state, pursuing ther trade with impunity as local authorities seemed unwilling or unable to stamp them out." The Denver Klan’s objective to ‘uphold law and order fit within Denver's problems with illegal alcohol, prostitution, and political ‘scandal. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND (secondary sources) William Joseph Simmons arrived to Denver in the spring of 1921. Simmons quickly busied himself by recruiting new Klan members. William Simmons became the driving force behind the new Ku Klux Klan image. The 1920s Klan’s movement and image isin accordance ‘with their published decrees of anti-Cathoticism, Protestant values, fraternal formalities, and the need to become politically involved. Throughout the Klan's reign in Denver, they exhibited their Aisdain forthe Catholie community while demonstrating charitable acts to various Protestant denominations. In addition, the new Klan structured their leadership in an organized hierarchy on both national and local levels. The arrangement gave clearer definitions of who was in charge as well as developing a stronger sense of brotherhood. Simmons had enlisted the aid of two shrewd Promoters, Edward Young Clarke and Elizabeth Tyler of the Atlanta-based Southern Publicity “Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Colorado (Urbana: Klan In University of Illinois Press, 1981), 7,6 Associ 1." Clarke and Tyler were responsible for membership recruitment, media propaganda, and the overall presentation of Klan imagery. The sharp rise in the secret order's membership reflected their success. Between June 1920, and October 1921, 85000 men and women joined the Klan.° These types of recruitment numbers were important in assembling a political constituency, which was now a part of the Klan directive. Ambitious recruitment and high ‘membership resulted in greater voting activity in favor of Klan-supported politicians, John Galen Locke was an eccentric Spanish-American war veteran, who abstained from sex and alcohol. Dr. Locke was formally educated and exhibited the leadership, charisma, and morality, Imperial Wizard Simmons desired. His extensive medical training provided him with ‘an office and private hospital in downtown Denver that was used as the headquarters for the Colorado Ku Klux Klan. Locke became not only an influential leader in the Denver Klan, but a Political player as well. Locke's genius for organization, eloquence, and ability to inspire fanatical loyalty made him one of the most important factors in the growth of the Colorado Klan.’ Dr. Locke was instrumental in advocating the decrees that constituted the Klan’s image of Jaw and order. A segment in “Ideals of the Ku Klux Klan states, “We stand for the enforcement of law by the regularly constituted authorities, and this order does not take law into its own hands and will not tolerate acts of lawlessness on the part of its members.” This statement from an official Klan document shows the level of lawfulness the organization was claiming to uphold, * Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Colorado (Urbana: Klan In University ofllllinois Press, 1981), 4. Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Colorado (Urbana: Klan In University of lllinois Press, 1981), 4. ’ Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 15. ® Ku Klux Klan, “Ideals of the Ku Klux Klan.” (Denver: Denver Public Library Ku Klux Klan Clipping Files, 1915).By making these bold assertions, the Klan gives the appearance of advocating the same principles as local law enforcement officials. Benjamin F. Stapleton was the mayor of Denver from 1923-1931, and again from 1935- 1947. One of Benjamin Stapleton’s platforms was to rid Denver of escalating crime and corruption. Stapleton ran for Mayor of Denver in 1923 aftr stints as the police magistrate, the Postmaster and a lawyer. Robert Goldberg states, “Stapleton announced his candidacy on March 30, pledging a war on crime and vice, lower taxes, and an efficient and frugal city government,”? ‘The Kian found an easy candidate to endorse. Stapleton’s position closely matched the position of Dr. Locke and his Klavern, Benjamin Stapleton defeated incumbent Mayor Dewey Bailey ina landslide victory. B. Y's inability to contain bootleggers, when other criminal activities such as prostitution and illicit gambling were ravaging Denver, facilitated his demise. Although Stapleton denounced the Klan during his campaign, it was soon discovered that {he candidate coveted the Klan’s support. Stapleton declared, “True Americanism needs no mask or disguise. Any attempt to stir up racial prejudices or religious intolerance is contrary to our Constitution and is therefore un-American.”"” Stapleton had Catholic and Jewish ‘supporters. Publicly endorsing the Klan could have been detrimental to his campaign, The mayor's denial of allegiance to the Denver Klan was quickly placed under suspicion as a result of one of his first Political appointments, Mayor Stapleton appointed fellow Klansman Rice Means to the position of safety manager. Safety manager is the civilian authority over the police, sheriff and fire departments. Because ofthe suspicion surrounding Stapleton, a Colorado tral lawyer and anti- Klan advocate demanded that Stapleton sign a condemnation of the Klan. The condemnation was ° Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 29, *° Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 30.to be publically printed. According to James Harlan Davis, “trial lawyer Hornbein made a request that was complied with. The compliance quieted all doubts for the remainder of the ‘campaign.”"” Stapleton was initially able to fulfill his mayoral duties, select several Klan members for city positions, and quiet suspicions of his Klan affiliations. Rice W. Means assisted Mayor Stapleton in enacting the initiative of law and order in the city of Denver. After serving a period as city manager of safety, Rice was made city attomey. Together, Rice and Stapleton governed within the boundaries of purported Ku Klux Klan beliefs, Before Stapleton took over as mayor in 1923, Prohibition violators, prostitution, and an under- reported drug problem overrode Denver. Police arrested an average of 53 persons per day for a total of 19,649 in one year. This was an increase of 28 percent over the 1920 figure and almost double the number apprehended in 1919." Rice Means was able to restructure the police department adding several Klansmen to the force. White citizens of Denver displeased with the progress of local law enforcement looked to the Klan as a solution. District Attomey Philip Van Cise, who was notorious for fighting lawlessness, initiated a compromise with Stapleton and Means, A meeting between Stapleton and District Attorney Van Cise concemed a discussion on a united policy of law enforcement, strict adherence to the city charter, and the elimination of favoritism.'* There were clearly efforts being made to accept the new city leadership. Van Cise became so impressed with Stapleton that he openly praised the mayor for keeping all promises to *! James H, Davis, “The Rise of the Ku Klux Klan in Colorado 1921-1925,” (Master Thesis University of Denver 1963), (hereafter) Denver Public Library Western Genealogy Department, 60. * Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 19. + James H. Davis, “The Rise of the Ku Klux Klan in Colorado 1921-1925," (Master Thesis University of Denver 1963), (hereafter) Denver Public Library Western Genealogy Department, 61.crack down on law violators. The appearance of a harmonious relationship between the Klan’s political endorsements and the rest of city government was commencing, Clarence Morley’s political position publicly resembled the Denver Klan’s edicts. Morley held important positions as a district judge and as a dedicated Klansman, Judge Morley made no apologies for sharing Klan beliefs that were anti-Black, anti-Jew, anti-Catholic, and anti- minority. Morley aggressively enforced prohibition laws, aligning with the law and order rhetoric of the Klan. Morley’s run for state governor in the 1924 elections was a key element in the Klan’s strategy to infiltrate Denver polities. A 1924 Denver Express article printed Morley saying, “Not for myself, mind you, do I wish to run, but for the benefit of the Klan. We must clean up the statehouse and place only Americans on guard.'* The Klan considered true ‘Americans to be white Protestants, Morley was determined to let the Denver public know that the Klan could soon be in charge of most city affairs. Morley ran on the Republican ticket and ‘won by a majority of the votes just as Stapleton and Means had. The Klan controlled the House, the Senate, and a plethora of District and Supreme Court benches. John Galen Locke was at the center of this large political takeover. CONTRASTS Several contrasts can be made between the work of Robert Alan Goldberg, Nancy MacLean, and various newspaper articles from the 1920s. Goldberg’s case rests within the framework of law and order, which was an essential proclamation of the new Ku Klux Klan. As the Klan was rising to political prominence, they were engaged in several acts of violence and intimidation. Nancy Maclean outlines, in Behind the Mask of Chivalry, the Klan’s perception behind their charitable events and their justification for acts of vigilantism. Charitable acts, +4 Denver Express, August 8, 192410 especially when presented to white women, were enacted as a way of protection and control. MacLean states, “Klansmen’s patriarchal insistence on the need to “protect” young women gained credibility from the reality that they were vulnerable, as those who knew unmarried ot deserted mothers could see.”'* The Klan could exhibit a level of control if they thought women were in need of their benevolence and protection. MacLean voiced, “Leader’s of the men’s Klan maintained ultimate control over the women’s Klan, a control symbolized by their ability to appoint their wives to office in the WKKK(Women of the Ku Klux Klan).'® Although the Klan made claims of advocating equality for white Protestant women, they believed that these women should act in accordance to Klan doctrines of behavior. Those doctrines were for white Protestants to comport themselves as upstanding patriotic Americans. The W.A.P. was 10 be comprised of women who were moralistic childbearing mothers. Another important aspect of MacLean’s study involves the Klan’s validation for acts of Vigilantism, The explanation summarized by MacLean is significant because it demonstrates the Klan’s justification for committing violent acts while aligning themselves under the doctrines of law and order. Beyond the argument of committing violent acts to protect family and property, Maclean examines a unique Klan ideology. MacLean states, “The concept of “popular sovereignty” provided the framework to justify the vigilantes’ activities. Since their government was of, by, and for the people, citizens were entitled to act in its stead when they represented the 15 Nancy MacLean, The Mask of Chivalry: The Making of the Second Ku Klux Klan, (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1994), 114. 16 Nancy MacLean, The Mask of Chivalry: The Making of the Second Ku Klux Klan, (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1994), 116,1 popular will.””” The Klan felt that acts of violence were an exercise of their freedoms as Americans; therefore, they were acting within the confines of law and order. TWO SIDES OF THE KLAN ‘The Klan engaged in various acts of kindness, community service, and grandiose displays to boost their public image. These acts were performed while covering their many transgressions. ‘The Klan engaged in parades, charitable contributions, hospital visits, state picnics, and other leisurely outings. The Klan gamered attention from newspapers due to their acts of civility. After staging a series of publicized parades in 1921, the Denver Klan made several surprise appearances. Phone calls were then made to local newspapers and reporters in hopes of having Klan actions of good will reported. The Rocky Mountain News received one such call. A member of the Klan’s women’s auxiliary (W.A.P) initiated the call, wanting press for a generous deed the auxiliary was about to engage in.'* A Klan chauffeured car drove Denver Times reporter Mattie Durkee just outside of Denver. Mattie Durkee reported in her article by stating, “[MJembers of the Women’s Auxiliary Klan drove me to a residence in Englewood, Colorado to deliver a basket of groceries to a woman and her small children.”'® Mattie Durkee was summoned to chronicle the Klan in a favorable light. The tone of Durkee’s report emits a feeling of mystery and intrigue with being able to be a part of the event. By printing this article, the Denver Times gives free positive press showcasing the Klan’s charitable image. This tactic could also be used as a ‘mobilizing strategy to attract females to the W.A.P. After the donation mission, a letter for the 17 Nancy MacLean, The Mask of Chivalry: The Making of the Second Ku Klux Klan, (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1994), 159. 18 W.A.P. are the initials for White American Protestant, a women’s auxiliary faction of the Ku Klux Klan, 19 The Denver Times, "Female Klan Takes Times Writer On Mercy Mission,” by Mattie Durkee October 28, 1922, p. 1.12 Denver Times editor was given to Durkee. The published letter states, “The W.AP. Study Club teaches loyalty to the flag, home, and country, It is educational in character and furnishes the opportunity for loyal American women to become united in the greatest woman's movement of the age.””° Equally important the letter disclosed, “History is said to repeat itself; the Christian Patriotic women of America are awakening to the perils which threaten their country and the very existence of our race, and they are determined to combat these evils with the assistance of our men.”*! The Denver Time: portraying the W.A.P. purely as a women’s club whose primary goals are to be loyal patti Americans. The letter also gives the appearance of an equal status to men within the Klan organization. This supports MacLean’s examination of Klan ‘men needing women to work with them in achieving their political aspirations. The publishing of this article gives the impression that the Denver Times is advocating the Klan. This perceived Klan support could be easily misconstrued by the average Denver citizen who is unaware of the Klan’s true characteristies. The Klan continued to build favorable image while asserting their code of ethies. The Denver Post reported that during the funeral of a policeman killed in the line of duty, six Klan members appeared. The Klansmen presented flowers as the body was being lowered into the grave vowing never to allow the officer's widow and children to be in need.” The article also printed a Klansman expressing, “Patrolman Richie Rose stood for law and order, and so does the Ku Klux Klan.” The issue of law and order is brought up again as a method used by the Klan to 20 The Denver Times, “Female Klan Takes Times Writer On Mercy Mission,” by Mattie Durkee October 28, 1922, p. 3. 21 The Denver Times, “Female Klan Takes Times Writer On Mercy Mission,” by Mattie Durkee October 28, 1922, p. 3. 22 The Denver Post, November 5, 1922, p. 13. ® The Denver Post, “Denver Ku Klux Klan Pays Tribute To Policeman Rose And Places Cross On Grave, November 5, 1922, p. 13.13 align with law enforcement and like-minded politicians. Honoring officer Rose demonstrates the Klan’s support for local police. The article later discusses the theory behind Roses” death. It was though that Rose was shot down while attempting to apprehend bootleggers. The Klan took an anti-bootlegging stance that concurred with Stapleton’s platform. This article was published in 1922, as was the Mattie Durkee article. A pattern of favorable press was developing for the Denver Klan during this year. According to Robert Alan Goldberg, “The Denver Klan appeared in January, 1922, with a donation to the Young Men’s Christian Association.”* This act of charity was designed to create a benevolent image, which the Klan could later use to mobilize votes for their pi cal candidates. The Klan also engaged in unannounced visits to local churches. A reporter was typically present. One unannounced visit involved a charitable gesture at the Second Presbyterian Church in Fort Collins. The Express-Courier reported, “three persons in the regalia of the Ku Klux Klan appeared before the pulpit and presented the pastor a sum of money, which, it develops, amounted to $50, as a gift for the church treasury.”° The Denver Klan used these publicized events to create a positive image with church leaders. Some churches became active in promoting Klan recruitment. Various factions of the community saw the Klan as a charitable organization. Bishop Alma White, of the Pillar of Fire Church, became an important Klan ally. Bishop White was responsible for spreading anti- Catholic rhetoric throughout Colorado. Pillar of Fire Church Publication, “The Good Citizen,” was used as the instrument of anti-Catholic opinion. According to the examinations of James Harlan Davis, “[Alrticles discussed benefits brought by the Klan, such as aid to the women’s 24 Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: of Illinois Press, 1981), 16. 25 Newspaper Clipping, KKK Files 1920-1929, (Denver Public Library Western History /Genealogy Department).14 cause, and cartoons and articles assured readers that the menacing Roman church would soon be routed from the land.”* “The Good Citizen” is another example of the contradiction of virtuous and malicious intent displayed by the Klan and their allies. They created a public image as charitable, law abiding, and tolerant of personal choice. These characteristics were supported by biased newspaper articles published in the early stages of the Denver Klan’s period of influence. ‘The Klan implemented strategies to mobilize business leaders. James Harlan Davis concluded, “A representative would go to a prominent firm and explain to the owner that the most influential people in Colorado were Klansmen, and his competitor (who would be named) belonged to the organization.””’ The Klansmen threatened business owners with a boycott. The danger of an economic decline was too risky for local business owners. Klan membership was in the thousands and the numbers were continuing to grow. The pressures placed on small business ‘owners are claimed to have brought in many people who had no sympathy with the KKK philosophy, but did fear financial ruin.”* ‘The Klan’s dark side emerged as soon as they organized in Denver. Although the Denver Ku Klux Klan hid under the shroud of law-abiding citizens, early on they covertly committed acts of malfeasance and violence. A 1921 Denver Times article outlined the bombing of a black family’s home. “At 8:15 o’elock last night an explosion tore pieces from the house, and so frightened Charles E. A. Starr, colored employee of the City Park Department living in the 26 James H. Davis, “The Rise of the Ku Klux Klan in Colorado 1921-1925,” (Master Thesis University of Denver 1963), (hereafter) Denver Public Library Western Genealogy Department, 46. 27 James H. Davis, "The Rise of the Ku Klux Klan in Colorado 1921-1925,” (Master Thesis University of Denver 1963), (hereafter) Denver Public Library Western Genealogy Department, 42. 28 James H. Davis, “The Rise of the Ku Klux Klan in Colorado 1921-1925,” (Master Thesis University of Denver 1963), (hereafter) Denver Public Library Western Genealogy Department, 42.15 house, that he rushed to the front yard, rifle in hand, and began firing promiscuously in all directions.” This bombing incident was never linked directly to the Ku Klux Klan. The bombing proved, however, that a violent element of white supremacy was active in Denver. Intimidation and force were used with disregard of the outcome. An example of overt violence that contradicted the Denver Klan’s law-abiding image involved the October 27", 1923 kidnapping and beating of Knights of Columbus member Patrick Walker.*” Soon after this incident, Klansmen assaulted Jewish attomey Ben Laska. The Klan was clearly using acts of force and intimidation, while hiding their violent image behind charitable actions. A notable Denver Ku Klux Klan offense concems a letter sent to African-American janitor Ward Gash. Gash was accused of having intimate relations with white women, as well as using abusive language while in the presence of white women. The letter took on a harsh and threatening tone. The Klan wrote, “You will take heed that the sun of the first day of February 1922 shall not set upon you in this, city, and the climate of Denver with be injurious to your health. Nigger do not look lightly upon this. Your hide is worth less to us than it is to you.”*! Although Denver didn’t suffer through lynchings, and some of the other extreme acts of violence that the southern states endured, this letter clearly shows the same level of racial hatred. The Klan exhibited several acts of hatred to the Catholic Community. While the Klan ‘were committing acts of charity to Presbyterian and Protestant churches, the Denver Catholic church was the central recipient of Klan hatred. The Klan excoriated Catholics for their devotion toa false church that preached a “paganistic creed with its worship of the Virgin Mary, dead 29 The Denver Times, November 16, 1921. 30 Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of llinois Press, 1981), 31-32 31 KKK Files 1920-1929, (Denver Public Library Western History/Genealogy Department).16 saints, images, bones and other relics.” Ku Klux Klan literature entitled, “Ideas of the Ku Klux Kan,” preach religious tolerance. The document states, “While we will energetically maintain and proclaim the principles of Protestantism, we will also main the principles of religious Nberty as essential tothe life and progress ofthis nation, and we will vigorously oppose al efforts to rob the American people of this right.”® These types of vernacular contradictions became common. The Klan exhibited two sides, one that preached law, order, and tolerance, and the other side expounded hatred. Opposition to the Denver Ku Klux Klan began immediately. The resistance, however, never amounted to a faction strong enough to defeat the Klan’s political surge, A 1921 article ‘hat ran in the Denver Express compiled by the Detroit Free Press, expressed the public concern. ‘The article summarized that the Klan was under surveillance, as were Denver police officers that were known members. The article also stated, ity authorities will not countenance a program of lawlessness by the Ku Klux Klan.” This article started a barrage of other condemning articles causing the newly arrived Denver Klan to retreat. The Klan, partly in reaction to these moves, closed its recruiting office, and its organizers left the city.°* When the Klan resurfaced in 1922, they realized that the discontent towards them still existed. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (N.A.A.C.P) expressed their concem by backing the Denver branch of the organization. The announcement followed press reports that George W. Gross, President of the Denver branch, had received a threatening leter from the local Ku Klux Klan, & Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana University of Illinois Press, 1981), 8. cue Klux Klan, “Ideals of the Ku Klux Klan.” (Denver: Denver Public Library Ku Klux Klan Clipping Files, 1915), 34 The Denver Express, September 21, 1921. & Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 14.17 ‘warning him to leave town because the branch filed a protest against the application made by the Klan for incorporation.®* This article is a testament to the momentum and Power of the Klan organization. Denver was being assisted on a national level; however, the combined forces were Rot enough to stop the local chapter of the Klan from attaining political influence. They were able to align themselves with the right people in politics. Minority and Catholic leaders voiced opposition to the Ku Klux Klan’s maneuvering, but ‘most voices went unheard, Such prominent Denverites as Benjamin B. Lindsey, father of the juvenile co: Father Matthew Smith, editor of the Denver Catholic Register; Sidney Whipple of the Denver Express; and Jewish leaders Philip Hombein and Charles Ginsberg hammered the Klan in eloquent editorials and speeches as a threat to constitutional government and the liberties of all Americans.”” The relatively small number of Blacks and Jews in Denver, approximately 000 and 17000 respectively, failed to create a combined opposing force. Anti-Klan Protestants failed to publically rebuke the Klan, Initial antagonism turned to silence. Robert Alan Goldberg explained that Denver's inability to generate an effective counterforce during the Klan’s formative years, whether in the form of attitudes or an opposition organization, facilitated the movement's expansion.* The Denver minority community’s powerlessness and inability to organize allowed the Klan to gather resources, members, and political alliances THE GREAT FALL The Klan reached the pinnacle of Colorado politics only to see it slip away amidst corruption, scandal, and being outmaneuvered by their political allies. The Klan’s contradicting 3 The Colorado Statesman, March 25, 1922. © Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 18, * Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 18,18 Public persona was used against them, Tensions within the ranks of Klan leadership caused the onset of deterioration, The Klan sought to make government more responsive by enacting a few Jaws and, most important, by placing its men in positions of authority, but the Klan and Clarence Morley were no match for the seasoned political operatives who knew the rules and tricks of the legislative arena.” Benjamin F. Stapleton felt the authority of Grand Wizard John Galen Locke was overrunning his leadership. Benjamin Stapleton once stated at a Klan meeting, “I have little to say, except that I will work with the Klan and for the Klan in the coming election, heart and soul, and if Tam re-elected, I shall give the Klan the type of administration it wants.”™° This statement shows the loyalty the two groups once shared. The desire for power and control forced Stapleton to devise a plan to regain his administration. Stapleton enlisted Governor Rice Means, who was also recently at odds with the Denver Klan, Means failed to secure a piece of legislature involving the removal Frank C. Howbert, Denver internal revenue collector. The two men waited for the Klan to commit a public act of lawlessness. ‘The event Stapleton and Means hoped for came on January 6, 1925. Several Klansmen kidnapped nineteen-year-old Klansman Keith Bochm, and threatened him with castration, Boehm was forced to marry a pregnant woman in the presenee of Dr. Locke. Locke told the Denver Post, “When I leamed of what had happened, I meant to see to it that young Bochm, as a Klansman, should do the manly thing." District Attorney Philip Van Cise filed charges, and Locke was arrested. The public humiliation tarnished Locke’s law-abiding image, consequently tamishing the Klan’ ® Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 94. 4° The Denver Post, August 8, 1924, | The Denver Post, January 8 1925.19 began to question their leadership and authority. Dissent in the ranks of the Denver Ku Klux Klan began to permeate, Benjamin Stapleton devised another strategy to shame the Klan, and disrupt their fraternity. [Jo reassert his authority over the police force, Mayor Stapleton launched the Good Friday vice raids on April 10, 1925." The covert operation effectively apprehended hundreds of bootleggers, prostitutes, and gamblers revealing a complex criminal network. Police officers who were also Klansmen were amongst those arrested. Robert Alan Goldberg reported, “Fourteen police officers were suspended, all but two of whom were well-known Klansmen.”"° The Klan’s image was in a state of non-repair. Klan leaders attempted to disregard the incident as a minor infraction, but the damage had been done in the minds of the Denver public. Another major incident took place, destroying the Denver Klan’s fragile public persona. Dr. John Galen Locke suffered another intense blow to his leadership, when it was revealed that the federal government was investigating him for tax violations. The government charged that Locke had reported no taxable income despite his earnings as a physician and his purported commission as Klan leader from initiation and robe fees.“ Locke was jailed and fined after his failure to turn over pertinent tax records. Locke received an abundance of support, especially from Governor Morley. The courts decided Locke’s fate would be in the form of a large fine. Author Robert Alan Goldberg concluded, “Governor Morley organized a fund to pay Locke's #2 Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 99. “8 Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 99. Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 104.20 income taxes arbitrarily assessed for the years 1918 to 1924 at $14,700."* The damage to his Klan brethren, however, was beginning to take its toll. Many Klansmen felt betrayed, and concluded that Grand Wizard Locke had stolen from his fellow Klansmen as well as the United States government. A violation of this magnitude was the antithesis of the Klan’s image as the embodiment of white Protestant American values. The abundance of scandals, arrests, and 1925 municipal election defeats, shook the Klan’s foundation, causing many members to revoke their membership. Denver news publications revisited the reign of the Denver Ku Klux Klan with a series of personal thoughts, and interviews with former members. After the Denver Klan’s departure the public perception of their reign shifted in comparison to earlier 1920s articles. Most of the people interviewed voiced their embarrassment over joining. Rocky Mountain News journalist Lee Casey wrote a series of articles interviewing former Denver Klansmen in June 1946. The article entitled, “Will Klan Revive in Colorado?,” explored public opinion on whether or not the Klan would rise to prominence in Colorado again. When asked, one former Klansman summarized “I can see no possibility of the Klan being a strength again except in local communities.“ The social climate of 1920s Denver shifted. The environment that the Klan was able to take advantage of was changing. Prohibition was over, and politicians were more skeptical of allowing social groups ascend politically. The former Klansman went on to say, “It broke up not, because of attacks from without, but because of corruption form inside. That’s invariably the case with a secret order."“” Casey interviewed another ex-Klansman who commented, “My Klan membership is the act of which I am chiefly ashamed, I’m sure there are thousands of others who +5 Robert Alan Goldberg, Hooded Empire: The Ku Klux Klan In Colorado (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1981), 105. 46 Rocky Mountain News, June 18, 1946. #7 Rocky Mountain News, June 18, 19462a feel as I do and will devote themselves to fighting the Klan whenever it raises its head.""* ‘Another article by Lee Casey was entitled, “Some Klan Relics A Shameful History!” In this, article former Klansman L.L.B stated, “My membership in the organization is the act of my life I Jook back on with most shame. I trust young men of today will profit by my bitter mistake of more than 20 years ago, and not fall into the same trap.”*” The prevailing sentiment, as summarized in the primary sources, is filled with disgust and shame. The Klan’s fall from grace left a negative image in the minds of some former members. The contradicting characteristics of the organization involving law and order and vigilantism, tainted public perceptions. Historically, social groups have a specific impression that they want to exude to the public, The characteristics of those impressions are utilized for certain gains. The new Ku Klux Klan formed in the 20" century seeking to become players in the American political framework. ‘The new version of the Klan adopted ideologies such as white Protestant values, law and order, anti-Catholicism, and fraternity. The American social environment after World War I created an atmosphere in which the Klan could enact their new image. Political prowess was the way to affect public policy, thus creating the society the Klan wanted. William Joseph Simmons arrived in Denver in 1921 to mobilize new recruits, and build a large Klan base. He quickly succeeded, and appointed Dr. John Galen Locke as the influential Grand Wizard of the Colorado Ku Klux Klan. Locke quickly adopted the 20" century Klan image, becoming a formidable force in the local strata, Locke’s leadership appealed to Benjamin F. Stapleton, Rice W. Means, and Clarence Morley. These four men formed an allegiance backed by thousands of newly initiated Colorado 48 Rocky Mountain News, June 18, 1946. 49 Rocky Mountain News, June 4, 1946.22 Klansmen and women. They occupied every important political seat in Colorado: mayor, governor, and U.S. Senate, Corruption, scandal, and lawlessness destroyed their political empire just as quickly as it had arrived. The imagery used to create a political stronghold over Colorado was destroyed by corruption and dissent within the organization, Source material by Robert Alan Goldberg, Nancy MacLean, as well as important primary documents, displayed the varied public perceptions and media biases concerning significant era of Denver history.